Playa del Ingles

Playa del Ingles is one of the larger and also busier resorts in Gran Canaria. While most of the buildings here are from the 1960s, the resort is getting more modernized and upgraded each year. You can find some vast beaches here and lots of shopping centres full of restaurants, shops and bars to explore.

Beaches

Playa del Ingles has many beaches within walking distance.  Playa del Ingles beach is the biggest and most popular because it has many restaurants and places to drink next to it.  

If you want it a bit quieter, you can walk over to the Playa del Veril, just a short walk away. It’s a bit less busy usually.  On the other side, you will find the Maspalomas beach and dunes, but this is most popular as a nude beach and for the gay community that often visits this area.

Hotels

There are many hotels in Playa del Ingles ranging from budget cheap and borderline junky to amazing, new and modern hotels. These are a few of my favourite ones after visiting lots of hotels in this area.

• Labranda Marieta is your best choice for a centrally located adults-only holiday.
• Santa Monica Suites hotel is ideal for a holiday close to the beach with great views over the dunes.
• Bohemia Suites & Spa is ideal for a modern, 5-star luxury holiday in a small and personal feeling hotel.
• Sol Barbacan is your best choice for an active and fun holiday with the family. Especially if you like it to be bungalow style.
• Gold Playa del Ingles is a very original and unique adults-only experience. I would call it a loungey, Ibiza vintage vibe.

Nightlife

When it comes to restaurants, there are many and a large variety all over Playa del Ingles.  Many of these are grouped into the shopping centres but also next to the frontline of the beach.  If you look a bit outside of these areas, you will find the best restaurants from my experiences. Also, prices will be better and service more personal when staying away from the larger grouped restaurants.

If you are not sure if Playa del Ingles is the right holiday destination for you, then look at my “Where to stay in Gran Canaria” guide.

Restaurants & bars

Playa del Ingles has many different bars, pubs and clubs… especially in the Yumbo centre area.  This area has loads of variety and is pleasant to explore in the evenings. Many of the places here are open till very late, and many of them are aimed at the gay community who like to come on holiday in this area. But, of course, they are also open to anyone.

How to get to Playa del Ingles

Playa del Ingles is 29 km from the Gran Canaria airport (LPA):

• Public trasport: 4.10€
• Shuttle bus: 5.50€
• Taxi: 34€

Important things to know about taxis, shuttles and buses at the Gran Canaria airport and the companies I booked with and would advise, you can find here.

Shopping

Playa del Ingles has lots of shopping centres spread out over the area. The Yumbo Center is the biggest and busiest one of these normally. They offer a great shaded place to do some shopping in the daytime but don’t expect anything fancy. But there is a large variety of touristy shops, bars and restaurants.

In the San Fernados area, you will also find the local market.

Things to do in Playa del Ingles

Playa del Ingles is located close to most of the main attractions in Gran Canaria. However, if I had to choose only one thing to advise, Palmitos Park would be it. It is not only an immaculate and beautiful park but also has lots of animal shows for the entire family.

Here is my complete list of things to do and not do while on holiday in Gran Canaria.